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The Best Cloth Diaper Inserts

The Best Cloth Diaper Inserts

Chances are, you’ve made it to this page because you’ve heard about how awesome reusable cloth diapers are and you’re interested in trying them out with your child. Good for you! We promise you won’t be disappointed. Reusable diapers are an eco-friendly option that can save you a fortune.

If you’re just getting started with reusable diapers, you may have heard that need to buy some cloth diaper inserts as well. But what are they? And how do you know which ones are best for your son or daughter? 

All-In-One vs Hybrid Diapers

First, it’s important to know that there are two main types of reusable diapers: all-in-one diapers and all-in-two (aka hybrid) diapers. The former is basically a cloth version of a standard disposable diaper. These diapers have a built-in absorbent pad, so when the diaper is soiled, you can remove the whole thing, throw it in the wash, and you’re good to go. On the other hand, two-in-one hybrid diapers don’t have a built-in moisture absorber, giving you the freedom to choose the size, material, and absorbancy level of the reusable cloth insert.

There are tradeoffs to each type. For those looking to avoid some of that “gross factor” mentioned before, all-in-one diapers can’t be beaten in terms of convenience. However, that is about the only advantage they have over hybrid reusable diapers. In comparison with all-in-one’s, hybrid diapers take far less time to dry, and because the removable cloth insert takes most of the “damage,” they last a lot longer than diapers with built-in inserts.

What are Cloth Diaper Inserts?

In short, cloth diaper inserts are reusable pads placed in a diaper to absorb liquids. They are arguably the most important part of a hybrid diaper because you’re basically left with a pair of underwear without them.

Cloth diaper inserts can be used in one of two ways depending on the design of the diapers you have chosen. If your diapers have a designated pocket, you can slip the insert inside. Otherwise, you can place the reusable insert in the bottom of the diaper against your child’s skin (with the exception of microfiber inserts). 

If you’re new to reusable diapers, the lingo can be a bit confusing. For example, you might see two seemingly identical products labeled differently; one as an insert and another as a booster. In a physical sense, these two products are identical. However, they differ in how they are used. Boosters are intended to be used with all-in-one diapers to “boost” or “double” absorbancy, while inserts are designed to be used as a stand-alone option. In the end, it’s just a marketing tactic to sell the same product to a broader group of consumers.

Be careful, though, not to confuse inserts with liners when shopping. These two products are made to do two entirely things. While inserts absorb moisture, liners are designed to allow liquids to pass through them, catching solids and preventing them from soaking into the diaper itself.

Different types of Inserts

Because older kids and teens with autism pee a lot more than toddlers or babies, you’re going to want to make sure that you find the inserts that are both ultra-absorbent and comfortable for your child. Fortunately, with the growing popularity of reusable diapers, there are many great options to choose from. Microfiber, cotton, hemp, and bamboo, are four of the most common materials used in cloth diaper inserts; and each has its unique pros and cons.

Microfiber

Because they are so easy to manufacture, microfiber cloth inserts are the most affordable and easy-to-find options. If your reusable diapers came with a few included inserts, chances are they were made from microfiber. The synthetic material does a great job of quickly and effectively soaking up moisture. However, once microfiber inserts reach their absorbancy limit, they struggle to hold the moisture in and are prone to compression leaking.

Unfortunately, the drawbacks don’t stop there. Unlike natural materials, microfiber quickly drys out and irritates the skin, making these inserts a valid option only if your diapers have a designated insert pocket. Additionally, since microfiber is plastic-based, it is not biodegradable, making it less friendly to the environment than comparable materials. 

Cotton

Cotton is a fantastic alternative to microfiber if you are looking for a natural option at an affordable price. Like microfiber, cotton absorbs quickly, is easy to wash, and is very soft to the touch. Keep in mind, though, that these inserts do tend to wear out relatively quickly, so you might have to replace them more frequently than with inserts made from other materials.

Bamboo

If you are willing to spend a little more on a natural, long-lasting cloth insert option, it’s hard to beat bamboo. Bamboo inserts are lightweight, ultra-absorbent, and do a great job of keeping the skin cool. In addition, inserts made from bamboo are among the best for locking in moisture and preventing compression leaks, making them an excellent choice for overnight use. While bamboo is a very durable and long-lasting material, some parents say that over time, bamboo inserts tend to lose their fluffiness, but your mileage may vary.

Hemp

Hemp inserts are often referred to as “luxury” products, and for a good reason. In terms of absorption levels, moisture-locking, and longevity, hemp works in a way that no other insert material does. Inserts made from this natural fiber actually become softer and more absorbent over time. 

Hemp fibers are very porous and are filled with natural oils. So with every wash, tiny holes open up, rinsing away some of those oils, leaving more room to absorb moisture as well as creating a fluffier texture. The only drawback that hemp inserts have is that the more absorbent they become, the longer they take to dry. 

In addition, being a “luxury product” also means that hemp inserts don’t come cheap. So if you’re interested in buying hemp cloth inserts, expect to pay a lot more than what you would for microfiber or cotton.

Our Top Picks for Cloth Diaper Inserts

Now that you know all about the different available types of cloth diaper inserts, it’s time to find one that best suits your family’s needs. Here, we have compiled a list of our favorite cloth inserts based on the material they are made with. 

The Best Microfiber Diaper Inserts

LukLoy Bamboo Microfiber Inserts

In terms of value, these LukLoy microfiber cloth inserts are among the best you’ll find on amazon. These inserts come in a pack of 6 for just under $32 and feature a blend of microfiber and bamboo for a combination of fast moisture absorption and maximum liquid retention (a unique feature at this price point.)

The Best Cotton Cloth Inserts

Leak Master Cotton Adult Diaper Inserts – 3 Pack

If you need a natural and straightforward reusable diaper insert at an affordable price point, look no further than LEAK MASTER. These Inserts offer a comfortable, no-frills design that will keep your son or daughter dry and throughout the day. 

As is the case with most cotton garments, there is a shrink factor with these inserts. LEAK MASTER claims that each insert will shrink by about 10% after the first few washing cycles, so take this into consideration when choosing from one of the three available sizes. 

The Best Bamboo Cloth Diaper Inserts

Simlug 5 Layer Reusable Adult Cloth Diaper Inserts

Finding a genuine bamboo cloth diaper insert can be hard to do online. Particularly on amazon, companies will claim in the product description that their inserts are made from bamboo when in reality, it is just a bamboo sleeve stuffed with microfiber. Fortunately, this isn’t the case with these 5-layer “Reusable Adult Cloth Diaper Inserts” from Slimlug.

With five super absorbent layers made from true bamboo fiber, these inserts offer maximum leak protection, making them an ideal choice for both day and night use.

The Best Hemp Diaper Inserts 

Lukara Hemp Cloth Diaper Inserts

If you have a “heavy wetter” living under your roof, you need an insert that can hold a lot of moisture without the risk of compression leaks. With a blend of 55% hemp fibers and 45% organic cotton, Lukara Hemp Cloth Diaper Inserts can give you that protection while offering optimal comfort. 

Unlike similar densely packed materials, like microfiber or cotton, the hemp fiber that Lukara uses in their inserts is lightweight and breathable, allowing your child to stay cool and comfortable when wearing one.

It’s important to note that these inserts are listed as child-size in the amazon description; however, with dimensions of 15×5.25 inches, they are the same size, if not larger than the other adult-sized inserts on this list.

Making Reusable Diapers Part of a Normal Life

If you’re thinking of making the switch from disposable to reusable diapers and need a little more help finding the perfect cloth insert, please let us know! As always, our goal is to give you as much information as we can regarding behavior, education, and products pertaining to autism. 

We also encourage you to check out our youtube channel and to join our #autismarmy Facebook group. Our community is constantly growing with dedicated moms, dads, and caregivers looking to help their kids live normal lives.

Is Keto The Best Diet For Autism?

Is Keto The Best Diet For Autism?

Paleo & vegan & keto, oh my! With a constant rotation of trending diets, It can be hard to keep up and sift through which diets are actually beneficial and which are just fads. Of course, everybody is different. A diet that changes one person’s life might prove to be completely useless (or even damaging) to someone else’s health. 

Throw in an autism diagnosis, and it’s even more challenging to find the right foods to eat and to avoid. 

Many families with autism swear by the keto diet. Claims have been made that this diet is excellent for behavioral improvements. However, committing to the keto diet can be challenging, and improvements aren’t always immediately seen. 

Since there are so many different opinions regarding the keto diet, we want to supply you with the facts so you can decide which diet is best for your family member with autism. 

Let’s dive into the science behind the keto diet, what benefits some claim to see, and why others are hesitant to implement this diet. 

What Is The Keto Diet?

Healthline explains, “It involves drastically reducing carbohydrate intake and replacing it with fat. This reduction in carbs puts your body into a metabolic state called ketosis.” In short, the keto diet is a low-carb, high-fat diet.

Putting the body in a state of nutritional ketosis leads to increased energy as the body can burn fat more efficiently in this state. As a result, the body’s primary energy source is now fat. In turn, there are more ketones producing energy in the brain. 

To maintain a low-carb, high-fat diet, foods you would avoid include sugar, grains, starches, fruits, beans, root vegetables, natural sweeteners, and unhealthy fats. Instead, you would focus on eating whole and nutritionally dense foods like meats, fish, eggs, dairy, olive oil, avocados, tomatoes, onions, peppers, and other low-carb vegetables. 

As it is a seemingly restrictive diet, let’s switch gears and focus on the benefits some claim to experience!

What Are The Benefits of Keto For Individuals With Autism?

Most people start the keto diet to lose weight, but it has also improved medical conditions such as epilepsy and heart disease. Other benefits are reduced inflammation, oxidative stress, and acne.

Thankfully, more studies have focused on the link between diet and Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) in recent years, so there isn’t a shortage of research to review before deciding on a diet. In addition, some studies have focused primarily on ketogenic diets to analyze if they are just a fad or if they have genuine benefits. 

For example, researchers who conducted a study at the University of Calgary say that kids with autism following a ketogenic diet showed “improved behavior and changed the metabolism and trace elements in their bodies.” They think this is a result of the brain having produced more energy thanks to the increase of ketones. We can’t forget to mention the kids partaking in this study were on a modified ketogenic diet. 

A second study shows a modified ketogenic diet is beneficial in improving social effects and behaviors in children with autism. A different study saw “noticeable improvements in learning, social behavior, speech, cooperation, stereotypy, and hyperactivity.” 

Interestingly enough, many individuals with autism are affected by mitochondrial dysfunction. Mitochondria make up a massive portion of the energy our body needs. When your body is in a state of ketosis, it increases mitochondria, which is another added bonus to a keto diet.

Of course, behavioral improvements will not happen overnight, and even within the mentioned studies, not every participant saw results. 

Why Some Are Skeptical

Sounds too good to be true? Some think so! Many arguments against a ketogenic diet to treat autism are based on these same studies. For example, some of these studies were conducted on small groups of participants and didn’t report the long-term effects of sticking with a keto diet as the studies lasted for a few months. 

At the same time, it’s a pretty restrictive diet. If you have a picky eater, following a keto diet might be just about impossible. 

As with any diet, it takes time to see changes. If your child doesn’t stick to the diet, all the effort might prove to be in vain.

We want to provide you with the information you need to decide. So, before deciding, ask yourself:

  • What are their current dietary restrictions?
  • How will the food budget change with a new diet?
  • Will they be compliant with this new diet?
  • Am I prepared to follow and cook a new meal plan?
  • Will the whole family be on board, or will I need to duplicate meals?

Of course, what we put into our bodies should be healthy and nutritional, but as with everything in life, our diet should balance it. So while keto isn’t for everyone, there are plenty of other diets that families with an autistic member have come to love. 

For example, a gluten-free and casein-free diet (GFCF) is another popular diet that many parents are implementing to benefit their child’s autism. Since it means avoiding certain foods, it’s also referred to as an elimination diet. Gluten is a protein found in wheat, rye, and barley. Casein is a protein found in mammal’s milk. So, following a casein-free diet means avoiding milk and other dairy products. 

What’s Best For Your Family

If you are still unsure about following a keto diet after looking at the studies and pros and cons of a keto diet, talk to your physician or consult with a dietician! They will no doubt give you loads more information and advice. 

Health fads come and go, but the basics of leading a healthy lifestyle don’t really change. Of course, as new research comes out, we keep learning new ways to care for our bodies and families. 

Whether you decide to start with a gluten-free diet or jump all the way in with a keto diet, we are here to cheer you on! Have you already switched to a new diet and noticed behavioral changes? We would love to hear your feedback! 

Autism and Diet: Can Diet Cause Autism?

Autism and Diet: Can Diet Cause Autism?

As a parent of an autistic child, you’ve probably spent hours and hours on the internet, sifting through pages of conflicting opinions about the best ways to raise your kid. So it probably comes as no surprise that there’s a ridiculous amount of criticism and speculation surrounding something as simple as food.

It seems like half the community wants to label one food as “a cure” while the other half wants to condemn it as “poisonous.” Sadly, this constant stream of differing opinions can make it super difficult to find reliable information regarding nutrition for your son or daughter on the spectrum. But, don’t worry, we’re here to clear up a little bit of that confusion!

In this article were going to take a look at food from a couple of different angles. First, we’ll check out some recent medical findings of prenatal nutrition, addressing the important question: Can diet cause autism? Then, we’ll talk about some helpful ways you can ensure your son or daughter is getting all the essential vitamins and minerals they need to live their best life. 

Fair warning, we’re about to dive pretty deep into a recent medical study, so put on your thinking caps; things are about to get really “science-y.”

Why has Autism Become So Common?

The fact of the matter is, autism spectrum disorders are becoming more and more common. Studies conducted by the CDC show that the number of children diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) this year is five times higher than twenty years ago, rising from one in every 150 kids to one in every 44 being medically diagnosed with some form of ASD. Those numbers are CRAZY! If things continue at the rate they are now, in twenty more years, nearly every kid will be born with some level of autism.

Its alarming stats like these that have parents and scientists asking the same question: Why? Why are there so many kids being born with autism? 

The good news is, more than ever before, researchers are determined to find answers. Every day, extensive investigation goes into finding causes for these rising numbers of autism diagnoses, and more importantly, what can be done to prevent kids from developing ASD in the future.

Is Food to Blame for the Rising Number of Autistic Children?

“Don’t drink, don’t smoke, and don’t do drugs; follow those rules, and your baby will come out just fine.” Sound familiar? Oh, if only it were only that simple. While these guidelines are a great place to start if you’re expecting, by no means do they guarantee a perfectly healthy birth. Every day autistic babies are born to moms who did “everything right” during their pregnancy.

Unfortunately, apart from these obvious “unwritten rules” there is very little information regarding what factors may increase the chances of a child being born with ASD. Some researchers suggest that a pregnant mother’s age, genetics, and environment play a large part. However, recently, scientists have been devoting much effort to researching a somewhat unexplored factor: prenatal diet. Can certain foods consumed by pregnant mothers increase the risk of having a child born with autism? Let’s take a look at what we know so far. 

The Foods in Question

Medical Researcher Dr. Saleh Naser, and his team at UCF College of Medicine Orlando, have recently discovered a potential medical breakthrough in the link to prenatal diet and autism.

The university scientists found that exposure to high levels of propionic acid (PPA) during pregnancy can directly affect nervous system development in the brains of unborn children. Propionic acid is a naturally occurring chemical that the body produces as food ferments in the digestive system. PPA is also added to many processed foods to enhance flavor and prolong shelf-life. 

Usually, consistent amounts of propionic acid are not a cause for concern. However, when a person’s PPA levels suddenly increase, problems can begin to arise, especially during pregnancy. The brilliant minds at the UCF College of medicine explain it this way:

  • “If a pregnant woman consumes a significant amount of processed foods, PPA levels can spike.”
  • “In excess, PPA impacts a fetus’ brain by reducing the development of neurons — cells that tell other body cells how to function. This can also damage neurons’ communication pathways throughout the body.”
  • “High amounts of PPA also cause an overproduction of glial cells. These cells protect neuron function, but too many cells disrupt the connection between neurons and causes inflammation in the brain and the rest of the body.”

Put simply, PPA levels during pregnancy seem to directly correlate with the likelihood that a child will exhibit typical ASD behavior, such as trouble communicating and stimming behavior like rocking back and forth or hand flapping after birth.

Which Foods Contain Propionic Acid and Should you Avoid Them?

PPA is commonly used as a preservative in many processed foods like cheese, dried fruit products, and baked goods such as bread, tortillas, and pre-packaged pastries. If you want to limit your intake of propionic acid, experts suggest checking the ingredients on the packaging for: 

  • Methyl propionate
  • Sodium propionate
  • Calcium propionate

The connection between propionic acid and neural development is still being studied. While there is no sure-fire way to guarantee that your baby will be born without signs of autism, it never hurts to air on the side of caution. As hard as it may be cutting down on processed foods during pregnancy can be a great way to maximize the potential for healthy fetal brain growth, and it’s better for your overall health in general. 

Can Diet be Used to Treat Autism?

Let’s switch gears now and examine another aspect of nutrition. We’ve established a possible connection between prenatal diet and autism, but what if you have a son or daughter who has already been diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder? Can their diet affect their overall health and cognitive ability? 

Put simply; there is no “cure” for autism. However, implementing certain foods into your child’s diet (and possibly removing some) can significantly improve their overall quality of life. When analyzing an autism-based diet, there are two main ways to look at food. First, from a nutritional perspective, and second, viewing certain foods as triggers can cause your son or daughter to react unfavorably.

Nutrition and Autism

One study showed that kids on the spectrum often lack fiber, folic acid, calcium, iron, zinc, and vitamins A, C, D, E, K, B6, and B12. All of these vitamins and minerals are crucial to your child’s development and overall well-being. Fortunately, there are tons of fun and tasty foods that you can implement into your child’s diet to ensure they are receiving all the vital nutrients that their little bodies need. Here are a few examples, broken down by each essential vitamin and mineral.

Fiber beans, broccoli, avocados, apricots, figs, potatoes. nuts
Folic Acid whole grains, spinach, peanuts,, asparagus
Calcium kale, soy beans, yogurt, chia seeds, cheese 
Iron peas, salmon, tuna, fortified breakfast cereals, pumpkin seeds
ZInc chicken, chick peas, cashews, almonds, pork chops
Vitamin A red peppers, carrots, sweet potatoes, mangos  
Vitamin C oranges, strawberries, brussel sprouts, pineapple
Vitamin D eggs, oatmeal, salmon
Vitamin E peanut butter, pumpkin, sunflower seeds, dark chocolate
Vitamin K Prunes, blackberries, pomegranates, kiwis, tomatoes
Vitamin B6 Papaya, canteloupe, turkey, tofu, beets, pistachios, garlic
Vitamin B12 Clams, shrimp, eggs, beef, trout

 

Also, just as a side note, if you haven’t done so already, we encourage you to visit your child’s doctor or nutritionist. Gluten and lactose allergies are common among autistic children. Since many kids can’t communicate how they feel with words, they may have one of these allergies without you ever knowing about it. 

Trigger Foods

Every kid has meals that they like and dislike, but for boys and girls living with ASD, certain foods may cause them to stress or even panic. Most of the time, It boils down to sensory perception. For some kids, foods with specific colors, intense flavors, or unfamiliar textures can be overwhelming to their senses. 

Be prepared, learning which foods trigger negative reactions in your child can be a challenge. It may seem like they suddenly have an avulsion to every new meal you put in front of them. In this situation, it’s best to start simple. Try to identify a few foods that they tolerate, and gradually make slight changes to your recipes to incorporate other ingredients. 

When trying to incorporate a specific vitamin-rich food, smoothies might just become your new best friend. Sweet fruits easily mask the flavors of “undesirable” foods like vegetables, allowing you to give them essential nutrients while providing a cool and tasty treat.

It’ll take some time, but with some creativity, you can gradually turn trigger foods into meals that your autistic son or daughter will actually crave, and who knows, you might even have some fun doing it. For more tips on getting your child to try new foods, check out this article here. 

Share Your Nutrition Tips with us!

We hope that this information has helped shed some light on the importance of a healthy diet both before and after a child is born. It’s awesome to see so much research finally going into this important part of daily life. New discoveries and studies regarding nutrition and autism are being published every day, so as always, we encourage you to do your own research and let us know what you find! 

The Best Autism Chew Toys on Amazon

The Best Autism Chew Toys on Amazon

Every child develops an attachment to one or several toys they just can’t live without. But, unfortunately, the things that entertain our children aren’t necessarily created to aid their learning process in this technology-driven world. As a parent, you want your child to learn and improve as they grow up.

When it comes to children with autism, the goal of any parent is the same, to help them become the best version of themselves. But, unfortunately, the toys we provide to our kids can positively or negatively affect their development.

Why Are Autism Chew Toys Necessary?

The role of every parent isn’t just about helping your autistic child develop good habits but also steering them away from the bad ones. For example, biting is a common bad habit in autistic children, and you must make sure they don’t harm you or themselves if they develop it. So it’s understandable that if your child develops this habit, it can increase the frustration you will feel, as a parent, on your journey to provide a safe, healthy environment for your child.

One of the best options that are helping parents counteract the biting habit is autism chew toys. The variety of chew toys available today is proof that they can safely manage your child’s tendency to bite. Let’s consider some of the main reasons why autism sensory chew toys are a good choice for parents, as well as some of the best chew toys for autism.

How Autism Chew Toys Support Your Child

Many might have the first thought that using autism chew toys seems degrading. But the reality is that they can help dignify your child by keeping them safe. 

Promote Personal Safety

A child, regardless of their age, has powerful jaws. Taking the proper steps to help prevent biting by using autism chew toys helps protect your child’s teeth from having to absorb the shock of suddenly clamping down on a hard object.

The health and wellbeing of someone with autism are paramount. Regardless of someone’s age, autism chew toys have proven to help manage the tendency to bite. In addition, chew toys for adults with autism have proven to be just as helpful as those designed for children. 

Develop Positive Interpersonal Relationships

Another advantage is that family members, friends, and classmates are kept safe. Healthy interactions with others are critical in helping a young person with autism learn to live amongst the general public. Young people with autism can also better form close interpersonal relationships with family members and friends when their interactions are positive and encouraging.

Sensory chew toys for autism help cut down on negative interactions with others due to biting episodes. Instead of being scolded, yelled at, or startled due to someone’s reaction to their biting, your child can have days filled with more helpful, supportive communication and interpersonal learning opportunities.

Strengthen Oral Motor and Facial Muscles

The human jaw is one of the strongest mechanisms in the body, and it’s essential not to be damaged by biting on the wrong things. Using sensory chew toys will also help your child develop facial muscles, oral motor exploration and help minimize food aversions. 

Other benefits include:

  • Exposing your children to a variety of different textures
  • Strengthening tongue coordination
  • Strengthening jaw and lip closure
  • Improve oral coordination necessary to speech, eating, and drinking.

Why Children With Autism Bite

When a child with autism starts biting, they do it for a few different reasons. Therefore, parents should observe their children and understand their biting because this will help find the best autism chew toy.

When They Feel Pain

Especially with younger children, it’s possible they may be feeling pain in their teeth or jaw. The pain or discomfort can be due to getting new teeth in or having a cavity. Whichever the reason, your child might resort to biting because they realize it helps ease the discomfort.

When They Experience Anxiety

Autistic children react differently to changes in their environment. When they experience different situations than what’s expected, they can develop higher anxiety levels. Chewing provides a calming sensation that helps your child settle down and relax.

Indication of Other Disorders

The need to bite can also result from a common condition in children with autism called Pica. Pica is defined as an appetite for non-food items, which leads them to chew and attempt to eat all sorts of things.

How Autism Chew Toys Can Help Prevent Your Child from Biting You

Regardless of the reason behind the biting, with an autism chew toy, you have the chance to help protect yourself. When the child starts biting, they’re trying to satisfy what could be a subconscious desire to feel a specific sensation in their mouth and not necessarily trying to harm you or anyone else.

The best way to prevent injury is to satisfy this sensation with a safe, soft, autism chew toy. Here are some of the kinds of autism chew toys available on the market today:

  • Chew necklace
  • Chew tool
  • Chewy tubes
  • Chewy toys

You can find autism chew toys in different shapes, sizes, and colors. Parents may want to check with their child before committing to one to make sure that:

  • The texture is pleasing to them.
  • The color is appealing to them.
  • The toy doesn’t make any unpleasant noises when chewed or rubbed up against other surfaces.

How to Use an Autism Chew Toy

If you haven’t used an autism chew toy before, know that they may take some getting used to. The most crucial step is to prepare ahead of time. Keep it close at hand for whenever your child may need oral sensory input. Typically your child will show signs indicating that they need oral stimulation.

Look For The Signs

Some of the signs parents want to look out for when oral stimulation is needed include:

  • Crying
  • Putting their fingers in their mouth
  • Looking around for something to bite

Sensory seekers need to satisfy their urge as soon as possible, so after noticing one of the signs, you want to calmly get the autism chew toy into your child’s mouth.

Things to Avoid

Although biting is a bad habit and needs correction, remember that it’s not always something they can control. For this reason, try to avoid the following:

  • Screaming at your child
  • Slapping or striking your child in any way, even lightly
  • Forcing the toy into your child’s mouth through clenched teeth
  • Scolding your child as you would if they had misbehaved

Keeping these things in mind will help prevent your child from forming negative associations with any autism sensory chewing toys you provide.

Other Useful Tips When Using Autism Chew Toys

Getting the chew toy to your child as soon as possible is vital, so keep it close by. It may be advisable to get several sensory autism chew toys, so you don’t have to search the house for one if the need arises. To help you use these chew toys more effectively, strategically place them in convenient areas, such as:

  • Around your child’s neck
  • In a pocketbook, backpack, or traveling bag
  • In a cupboard in the kitchen
  • In the bathroom
  • In your child’s bedroom
  • In a play area

The Top 3 Chew Toys For Autism

The best chew toys are soft and with bumps or ridges that your child can use to help ease specific areas of sensitivity. Here are the top three autism chew toys that are sure to reduce your child’s biting habit.

Shark Tooth Chew Necklace

The closest location for your child’s chew toy is right around their neck. A chew necklace is convenient because it can be both a chew toy and an accessory your child can play with whenever they want. Especially for boys, this 100% food-grade silicone shark tooth is always a cool, attractive, and safe accessory for children over 3.

Sensory University Red Chewy Stixx Oral Tubes Tough Bar

Chew Stixx Tough Bars is a solid, chunky bar perfect for extreme biting. This chew stick is also made with different textures, so it’s an excellent option for children craving sensory input or the input received from destructive oral motor grinding.

Panny & Mody Sensory Chew Necklace Pendant Chewable Jewelry

For mild to moderate chewers, this sensory chew necklace pendant set is made of 100% food-grade silicone with no BPAs, PVCs, phthalates, lead cadmium, or heavy metal. It’s made with large, prominent bumps in the front and tiny raised bumps on the back to address different sensory needs.

Autism Chew Toys Are Part of Your Child’s Normal Life 

Every child is different, but autism chew toys can help ease your child’s urge to bite while simultaneously protecting them and others. Redirecting their need to satisfy their desire to feel a specific sensation in their mouth towards a safe option will be very beneficial. Take the time to observe your child and adapt how you use your autism chew toys as they grow.

Biting is just one of the many habits that children, even those without autism, can develop from an early age. Normal Life, Inc. was established to give you a community to help families affected by autism and other intellectual disabilities. Our goal is to help every family with autism that we reach by providing much-needed resources.

Contact us if you have any questions, concerns, or thoughts; we would love to hear from you. You can also take a look through our YouTube channel as well as our Facebook group #autismarmy.

The Ultimate Gift Guide for Teenagers With Autism

The Ultimate Gift Guide for Teenagers With Autism

Gift-giving is all about showing someone you care and making them happy. Even so, we often stress about finding the “perfect” gift and spend hours scrolling through Amazon with a single person in mind. 

On top of that, shopping for teenagers is no easy task! While this statement is true for neurotypical teens, it’s even more relevant to teenagers with autism. Since the teen’s unique needs should be considered, time, patience, and understanding will come into play when shopping for a teenager with autism. 

For example, a child with sensory overload surely wouldn’t appreciate the popular slime toys. But, on the other hand, perhaps for a different teen who struggles with fine motor skills, kits with a stack of small pieces they need to put together might just cause frustration and go unused.

If you are a relative or friend shopping for a teenager with autism, then even more research might be needed on your part. We recommend asking their parent or guardian some appropriate gift ideas or even what types of gifts you should avoid purchasing. 

Whether you are the guardian of a teenager with autism or simply a caring friend, we want to alleviate the stress of gift-giving for an autistic child and answer some questions both parents and friends might have.

What to Look For in a Gift

Of course, every kid is different. A gift that excites one kid might ultimately bore another one. Keep this in mind when looking for a gift for your teenager with autism. As suggested, there are a few general things to avoid and consider, including the following:

  • Developmental needs and skillset
  • Personal interests and hobbies
  • Sensory communication and needs
  • Age recommendations don’t always apply

While it’s good to acknowledge these points, there isn’t any specific set of gifts that teenagers with autism absolutely must have or avoid. Of course, educational and practical gifts are great for teens and their parents, but teens should have fun and enjoy their activities. 

Gifts For Teenagers With Autism

We have gathered tried and true gizmos and gadgets to put together the ultimate gift guide for teenagers with autism in 2021!

Take a look at our ultimate gift guide for teenagers with autism that either boys or girls would enjoy:

Nintendo Switch

A Nintendo Switch just might be on the top of everyone’s wish list this year. So it may or may not come as a surprise that video games can benefit kids by teaching them new skills and methods of communication. In addition, many different games can be played on the Switch, which are both entertaining and educational. 

With the Nintendo Switch, you can convert a home console to a handheld one. This set from Amazon includes everything you need to get set up, including a 3-month Nintendo Switch Online membership and Mario Cart 8. 

Nintendo Switch Games And Accessories

If your teen or friend already owns and loves their Nintendo Switch, then consider adding more games or accessories to their collection!

EOVOLA Accessories Kit for Nintendo Switch

Evola’s accessories kit includes absolutely everything needed to keep a Nintendo Switch organized and protected. In addition, an organization carrier makes the Switch a true travel-friendly console. 

A play stand, game card case, Switch wheels, charging dock, grips, and screen protectors are ALL included in this kit. The only thing missing is the Switch itself!

Just Dance & Wrist Bands for Just Dance 

Games like Just Dance incorporate fun ways to get your teen moving and active. Dancing encourages body awareness which is an added benefit for a teenager with autism. Additionally, they can play Just Dance by themselves or use co-op mode to play with friends and family for fun social interactions. 

We love using Just Dance to work out with the whole family, but holding onto the two controllers can be tricky and bothersome. Adding wrist bands is a handy way to keep up the fun and dance freely without accidentally throwing the controllers around. 

Apple iPad

iPad’s might just be the ultimate gift for a teenager since they can be used as entertainment, education, a creative outlet, and a communication tool, among others. Compared to other tablets, Apple is preferred since it’s an easy-to-use and customizable device. 

You can find countless apps that meet any need or want. For example, many teens with autism have found their voice thanks to apps that help them communicate with friends, family, schoolmates, and teachers. In addition, since it is lightweight and small, iPad’s portable and encourages independence. 

LEGO THE LEGO MOVIE 2 Movie Maker

While playing with Legos might not be everyone’s cup of tea, Lego therapy has been shown to improve collaboration, communication, and fine motor skills. Putting together and playing with Legos also encourages imagination.

The Lego Movie 2 Movie Maker set comes with 482 pieces, including figurines, scene-setting backdrops, and more. However, what set’s this Lego kit apart from others, is the accompanying movie maker app that you can download on a phone or tablet to turn you into an authentic movie director. 

Singing Machine Karaoke

Encourage a teen with autism to express themselves and step out of their comfort zone with the help of a karaoke machine. The Singing Machine Karaoke system hooks up to a TV screen through cables to read the lyrics while a CD player, Bluetooth, and USB can all be used to connect the audio.

LED disco lights contribute to making it a true party ambiance! A dimmer setting allows you to control the changing colors and lights if it results in overwhelming for your teen.

Dance Mat Game 

A dance mat is a great way to get a teen dancing to their favorite songs! You can hook up Yuffie’s mat to any PC or TV with an adapter for a quick and convenient setup. 

Compared with purchasing Just Dance and the Nintendo Switch, a dance mat is an easy and affordable alternative. Additionally, they can play other touch-sensitive games with the Yufee Dance Mat.

Professional Colored Pencils Set of 72 Color Pencils with Zipper Case & Sea Life Color by Number Coloring Book

For a creative and art-loving teen, a set of professional colored pencils is the perfect gift. Orionstar’s complete set of 72 pigmented pencils comes with a nylon portable case. 

Make it a complete gift set by adding a color book. Color by number books uses simple color keys to turn anybody into an artist. This Sea Life-themed book is just what any teen needs to slow down and relax. 

Combining the portable colored pencil case with a color by number book is excellent for teens when they are on the go or in new environments and need to keep their minds calm.

Bose QuietComfort 45 Bluetooth Wireless Noise Canceling Headphones

Bose QuietComfort Headphones are an excellent gift for a music-loving teenager. The fact that these headphones are noise canceling makes them ideal for someone with auditory sensitivities. Many like to use noise-canceling headphones when concentrating on schoolwork, while others like to block out overwhelming background noise while going out in public. 

Bose QuietComfort is made from plush synthetic leather, meaning it’s as comfortable as it is durable. In addition, it has a 24-hour battery life and comes with a carrying case to make it easily portable. 

Canon PowerShot SX530 Digital Camera w/ 50X Optical Zoom

Literally and figuratively speaking, cameras offer a different point of view. They can be used to create art and as a form of communication. Teaching photography and videography to a teenager with autism can reap many benefits, and it could even spark a newfound passion. 

50x optical zoom results in detailed photos and videos of wildlife, people, landscapes, or things either up close or from far away. Canon Powershot SX530 has many features, including wireless connectivity, high-sensitivity sensors, and high-speed AF. 

The Ultimate Gift For Your Teenager With Autism

From electronics to art supplies, no doubt you will find the right gift. Spotting the perfect gift for someone is like searching the beach for the right shells. It takes a bit of time and patience, but it is well worth the effort once you see a big smile on the recipient’s face. 

We outlined our ultimate gift guide of products we have come to love for teens with autism, but we would love to hear from you! So please share with us what’s on your gift list this year for your teenager with autism. 

 

What is Stimming in Autism?

What is Stimming in Autism?

Communication skills are an essential part of any child’s development, and this fact doesn’t change when it comes to children with Autism. As the parent of an autistic child, you have the joy of learning the particular way in which they communicate. For this reason, you must understand how they express themselves.

One of those behaviors that you can identify is stimming. 

Stimming in Autism is a self-stimulatory behavior that consists of repetitive or unusual body movements or noises. To help you understand stimming, let’s consider:

  • What are the different types of stimming?
  • Why do kids with Autism stim?
  • What causes stimming?
  • What are the benefits of stimming?

What Are The Different Types of Stimming?

Stimming can be expressed through various means that can fall under one of the following categories:

Visual Stimming

Visual stimulations can attract the attention of children with Autism. For example, if you notice they are looking at something sideways, focused on watching an object that’s spinning, or that they flutter their fingers near the eyes, then they can be displaying visual stimming.

Auditory Stimming

Sound and noises can also draw the attention of your child. Examples of auditory stimming include:

  • Listening to the same song or noise over and over, such as opening and closing doors or flicking switches
  • Repeating the same noise they make, like tapping or clicking their fingers

Tactile Stimming

Stimming displayed as a tactile nature is commonly seen through hand and finger mannerisms, for example, finger-flicking or hand-flapping. It’s vital to keep an eye out for tactile stimming because this type of behavior could potentially cause harm to the person or others. 

If this is the case with your autistic child, you can redirect this behavior with specific tools such as a stress ball or a vibrating sensory cushion.

Verbal Stimming

What is verbal stimming? This term refers to verbal self-stimulatory behavior like repeating certain words, sounds, or noises. Verbal stimming can sometimes be hard to notice since they don’t have an apparent cause.

Stimming Based on Taste And Smell

Another type of stimming is based on the senses of taste and smell. Look out for the following behaviors:

  • Licking things
  • Chewing objects
  • Putting body parts in their mouth
  • Sniffing people or animals

Vestibular Stimming

The vestibular system refers to the sensory system that aids in the sense of balance. Vestibular stimming then has to do with repetitive actions that deal with your child’s balance. As a result, you will notice unusual body movements and weird posturing. 

Some examples of vestibular stimming include:

  • Spinning
  • Rocking back and forth 
  • Holding hands or fingers out at an angle
  • Arching the back while sitting

Proprioceptive Stimming

Proprioception is the ability we have to control our limbs without having to look at them. Children with Autism typically have this ability reduced, affecting their understanding of where they are and what they’re doing. Proprioceptive stimming behaviors can involve throwing items, pacing, or jumping around.

What Causes Stimming?

Why do kids with Autism stim? The exact cause of stimming isn’t easily determined, but it has been understood to be like a coping mechanism that can help those with Autism to adapt to certain personal difficulties, such as:

  • Sensitivity. Your autistic child may be oversensitive or undersensitive. If they’re oversensitive to sensory information, stimming helps focus their attention on the behavior, so they can manage and reduce sensory overload. If they’re undersensitive, stimming can stimulate your child’s senses.
  • Unfamiliar environments. A change in their environment can negatively affect a child with Autism causing stimming. Especially if they have difficulty communicating, stimming may be their way of expressing frustration. They may also react to avoid certain activities or expectations.
  • Management of emotions. Stimming is one way in which your child reduces anxiety and can calm themselves down. It can also help manage emotions like anger, fear, and excitement by focusing their attention on the stim.
  • Attention seeking. In some cases, your child may recognize that their stimming results in special attention. They will see stimming as a means of getting more attention.
  • Pain. In rare cases, stimming is your autistic child’s attempt to ease pain or other physical discomforts.

Are you having trouble understanding your child’s stimming? Seeking the services of a behavior specialist or therapist with experience in Autism may shed some light on the specific cause of your child’s stimming behavior.

Are There Any Dangers of Stimming?

When we consider all the different triggers for stimming, it’s clear why there are different views on these behaviors, making it a pretty controversial topic. But the reality is that stimming isn’t necessarily a bad thing since it can help your autistic child cope with different situations they don’t understand. 

However, if your child has developed stimming that leads to self-injury, then you will need to look for ways to reduce such stims. Some of these stims you want to keep an eye out for are:

  • Severe hand-biting
  • Banging their head
  • Scratching their skin
  • Pulling their hair
  • Extreme picking or nail-biting

As a parent, you must also observe stims that, although they don’t cause harm, can be detrimental to their ability to learn. For instance, rather than helping them focus, stimming can cause them to be distracted from their schoolwork. Stimming can also affect the attention an autistic child gives to the outside world, which affects their ability to develop communication skills with parents and others that surround them.

Tips For Managing Stimming in Autistic Children

If stimming negatively affects your child, here are a couple of tips that can help you manage your child’s stimming.

Identifying The Cause

To begin managing stims, you have to figure out the reason behind them. Since behaviors can be a form of communication, you should evaluate the situations that cause the stimming. 

Some ideas that can help you better identify the cause include:

  • Eliminating or reducing what you believe is the stim trigger
  • Stick to a routine for daily tasks

Address The Stim Correctly

When you have identified the cause of your child’s stimming, you must learn to react so you can manage the situation appropriately. You can put into practice these tips:

  • Reinforce acceptable behaviors and self-control
  • Intervening in unsafe behavior
  • Avoid punishing the behavior
  • Teach an alternate acceptable behavior
  • Learn when it’s best not to respond
  • Educate other family members on how to act
  • Create a safe environment

Other Factors to Consider

In situations where your autistic child has problems communicating, stimming may be the result of physical issues such as:

  • Ear infections
  • Chronic pain
  • Migraines

It’s a good idea for your child to get a medical exam to eliminate the possibility that stimming is one way your child is trying to tell you that something is wrong with them physically.

What Are Autism Stim Toys?

Many self-stimulatory behaviors are also manageable with unique sensory products, which are sometimes referred to as stim toys. Here are some of the best stim toys to improve focus in children with Autism.

Toys To Fiddle With

Some stims are displayed as hand movements, making any toy they can shake or flick ideal for managing these behaviors. Your child may enjoy:

  • Fidget spinners. Spinning toys stimulate the visual and tactile systems making their small shapes ideal for taking anywhere.
  • Stretchy Strings Noodles. Excellent toys you can tie in knots, squeeze, stretch, wrap around their hands, and bounce off different surfaces.

Toys They Can Chew

Some autistic children find chewing extremely therapeutic, particularly when nervous or excited. Direct this self-stimulatory behavior towards chewable toys and jewelry such as:

Toys That Light Up And Make Sounds

Things that light up and make sounds will definitely catch the attention of any child. In the case of children with stims, these types of toys can be a perfect replacement for stimming behaviors. Some stim toys that can have a positive effect on the auditory and visual systems are

Toys They Can Watch

Moving visual stim toys are a great way to stimulate your child’s thoughts and help them use their imaginations. But these types of toys can either have a calming and regulating effect or an alerting and arousing effect, so make sure you evaluate some toys like:

Join a Community Eager to Help

Parents just want the best for their children, but, unfortunately, raising a child with Autism or other special needs does have its challenges. Our goal at Normal Life, Inc. is to transform the world of Autism resources by giving you first-hand advice from a community of parents eager to help.

The resources made available at Normal Life, Inc. will help you build an environment for your child that’s conducive to a normal life. You will learn to regulate and organize your life with the correct instructions that adapt to your unique situation.

Contact us today to help you give your child the opportunity they deserve to realize their full potential no matter their medical diagnosis.

Toilet Training Techniques: Smearing BM

A common behavior with Autistic children, or kids with special needs, is fecal smearing. Although it may seem like your child thinks this is fun to do, fecal smearing has serious health risks and can cause real damage to your property. The terrible anxiety it causes you as a parent or guardian is beyond description, but something can be done about it! Whether it is intentional or accidental, we must look into all avenues to stop this behavior. You should always start with the least restrictive first.

Tip #1 

Literally give them fiber gummies from walmart. They look like the candy “dots” and taste like candy. I love this! It won’t give them cramps, It doesn’t cause an upset tummy. Some of the side effects of other brands can cause discomfort. Try it yourself. I usually try everything myself because my non-verbal child can’t tell me how he feels. This added to their morning medication or routine will assist in their routine with poo.They will usually go by 3 or 4 pm if you give them Fiber gummies in the morning. Sometimes if they are backed up and they don’t go. Keep giving them fiber every morning until they go. Then once they are on a routine then their body will be on a routine of pooping. I usually give my children 3 gummies. These are only for the children who have trouble.

I start with the biggest secret because it’s the most important. These gummy’s have been tried on all my children and it took me years to find them. They also provide these children with the perfect poo. Believe me some fiber options make their poo pasty or too loose and these two are the worst to clean up. (If they are backed up sometimes it will start out loose then go to form and might hurt the first time until they are regular.) Keep them regular on their liquids also. This will help with fully toilet training. Before doing the data add the fiber to their morning.

Most people have a bowel movement around the same time every day. So in order to help us to more fully understand when this is most likely to occur with our child, we must take accurate data and record the times of day when your child has a bowel movement for three days.

 

Hour/Day

Monday

Tuesday

Wednesday

1:00

X

1:30

X

2:00

X

2:30

Then, after reviewing that collected data, we could see his/her regular schedule of times which he/she was more likely to defecate is within the hour from 1pm to 2pm. So place them on the toilet at 1pm. If they didn’t go. Then try again at 1:30pm and so on.

When he/she has a bowel movement in the toilet, reward them with praise, either with clapping and saying “right on!”, I sing my own song to Curits, “Poo Poo in the toil’et, Poo poo in the toil’et” with an edible treat. Curtis liked M & M’s. They must receive positive attention from you. Make sure you still mark it down until they are in a regular routine.

One more important thing! 

When they do a smear, pay them no mind. No eye contact, no noises, just be a monotone. Any type of interaction could turn into a reward. Only do this while cleaning him/her and the room up. Then after you are all done. Then go outside and cry.. But don’t show them any reaction.  Only give a positive reaction when they pee or poo in the toilet.

I have been able to get my non-verbal 23 year old, who has a mind of a 10 month old baby toilet trained, but it is called tripped trained *. Tripped Trained: Is when you can get your child in such a great routine. That they hold everything until the morning. Put them on the toilet and they go. After lunch, put them on the toilet and they go. After 3 oclock snacks, put them on the toilet and they go. After dinner, put them on the toilet and they go. Then before bed time, put them on the toilet and they go. And usually their accidents are because someone forgot to put them on the toilet.

Tip #2   

The most important thing is to rip out the carpet!! In your child’s room. The institutions were I worked had no carpet, so when a client smeared feces, we washed it up easily. I know many people don’t want to rip out their son’s or daughter’s carpet.  Believe me you will thank yourself for listening to me. Nothing like trying to clean out ground in feces out of carpets and trying to get out that smell. Along with all the times you went to get your kids up from playing in their rooms and you find a big wet spot from the diaper leakage. Go to your local Lowes and get a floor kit and start a new project of simplifying your life. This is the best alternative!

Tip #3

Buy tighty whities and buy them snug. After placing the diaper on, put on tighty whities on and this will help for fecal leakage if there should be a bowel movement. I even send my child to school with underwear over their diaper to help them out. Sometimes that stuff can drop right down the legs then we have a bigger mess on our hands. We don’t want our children to get embarrassed at school for leaking their diapers.

Tip #4 

Go buy onesie PJs.This is for the children who find a “new toy” in their pants. Put the onesie on backwards and zip them up. Make sure they don’t have feet in them, and if they do,cut them off. Winter is the best time of year to find these in all stores and in all sizes. Even in the men’s department for those bigger kids. This will help them from having wandering hands. If you have a child that is known for ripping up their onesie. Then spend the money to purchase a ‘no-rip jump suit from this website http://adaptiveclothingshowroom.com  I get no kick back, look through their items it might be worth it.

Side Note: In the state of Washington, a child at the age of 3 year, who is not toilet trained may get a prescription from their pediatrician to have diapers paid for from either your health insurance or DSHS. However, the state diapers are cheap. If you are unhappy with the diapers they send you. Call them and ask for samples. They are happy to accommodate. So check your state or insurance to see where your child might be covered. Or try the top ten we have chosen https://normallifeinc.com/autism-awareness-blog/10-best-adult-diapers-available-for-sale-in-2020/

I hoped we helped. Please give a review and brag about toilet training your child! Please if this doesn’t work let us know. Every child is different. Please join our group on facebook https://www.facebook.com/groups/autismarmy many of us have already raised our children and it’s a nice place to vent if needed, along with many ideas from other parents. Join us on you tube and Subscribe Here is a link https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2YtbMDK3JK8&t=20s

 

How to Make a DIY PECS Board at Home

How to Make a DIY PECS Board At Home

The minds of our kids and their capability to learn are constantly growing as they become older. The ideal way to make sure your child reaches their fullest potential is to find the teaching tools that will better assist their learning process. 

Since the learning styles of every child are different, you must try all of the methods available. One of the most effective methods for improving your child’s communication and speech skills is PECS.

What is PECS?

PECS is an acronym that stands for Picture Exchange Communication System. PECS is a great teaching tool that helps nonverbal children communicate without words, such as those with autism.

This system starts by using pictures to allow your child to make choices and convey what they need. Eventually, those same pictures are used to teach them the words they represent and encourage verbal communication.

But where did this method come from?

History of PECS

The Picture Exchange Communication System (PECS) was developed by Andy Bondy and his wife, Lori Frost, in 1985 here in the USA. The teaching method, based on the book Verbal Behavior by B.F. Skinner, focuses on the idea that behavior can be determined by the consequences, whether they are reinforcements or punishments, making it more or less likely that behavior will happen again. 

Another aspect in developing the PECS system included the broad spectrum of Applied Behavior Analysis, which is “the practice of applying the psychological principles of learning theory in a systematic way to modify behavior.” 

Understanding How PECS Works

PECS has been used worldwide to help thousands of people of various ages and with an array of cognitive, physical, and communication challenges. This teaching tool consists of the following six phases:

Phase 1: Learning How to Communicate

Have you ever heard the saying “a picture is worth a thousand words”? A single image can convey a whole story sometimes better than any amount of descriptive text. 

PECS uses this idea with simple pictures of everyday items or activities that your child wants or needs. You’ll encourage your child to choose one of the pictures they want and bring it to you to exchange for the actual item. For example, if they want an apple, they will hand you a picture of the apple, and you will give them an apple.

Phase 2: Distance and Persistence

Once you believe that your child has understood how to communicate with pictures what they want, you can begin to associate certain items with specific areas of your home. During this phase, you can also start to use PECS with different members of the family, other visitors, and across distances.

The idea behind phase 2 is to teach your child how to become a more persistent communicator.

Phase 3: Picture Discrimination

In Phase 3, you start to challenge your child a bit more by having them select from multiple pictures to help them ask for their favorite things. 

When you give your child various choices, the best option to make it easier for them to choose is utilizing some kind of PECS communication device. The most common device is a ringed binder with Velcro strips where your child can easily find the pictures they have learned, remove them, and hand them over to someone.

Phase 4: Sentence Structure

As your child becomes more comfortable using pictures, they’ll be ready to face a challenge by constructing simple sentences. For example, your PECS communication device can have a “Sentence Strip” with an image representing and containing the phrase “I want.” They will then need to place a picture of the item they’re requesting next to the “I want” picture.

Phase 5: Responsive Requesting

Phase 5 begins to combine their picture communication skills with verbal cues. For example, your child will learn to use their PECS communication device to answer questions like “What do you want?”.

Phase 6: Commenting

After your child has successfully implemented Phase 5, they can now be taught to comment in response to questions such as:

  • What do you see?
  • What do you hear?
  • What is it?

Their response will allow them to create sentences that start with “I see,” “I hear,” “I feel,” and “It is a.” You’ll be able to progressively add different pictures to your child’s “vocabulary” as they become more comfortable expressing themselves using their PECS communication device.

How Can I Make My Own PECS Board?

As a parent, no price is too high for an effective tool that helps develop your child’s communication and speech skills. But it’s also essential to try the basic concept of a PECS teaching method to determine how your child will respond.

Creating your own Picture Exchange Communication System at home will help you begin to develop vital skills without investing in expensive tools that may not work. Some of the items you will need to create your own PECS board include:

  • Sturdy material such as wood
  • Printed and laminated pictures
  • Velcro

Step 1: Create a Sturdy Base

You must make your PECS board of sturdy material because children will easily drop and throw most items. Start with a board the size of a binder made out of plywood that’s safe to handle or purchase a chalkboard (they usually come in various sizes).  

Step 2: Print and Laminate Pictures

Every child has their favorite snack, toy, or activity, and these are pictures that will be ideal to start with. For most children, actual pictures of these familiar items taken with a digital camera will be easier to recognize, but you can also use cartoons or other clipart available online.

Make sure your pictures are about the size of a three-inch square and then laminate them to make them more durable. Even though you want to begin with fewer pictures while your child begins to understand the PECS method, print out various items so you can have them ready.

Step 3: Place the Velcro

Once you have your sturdy base, turn it to the landscape position and evenly place about three rows of velcro strips from left to right. Depending on the size of your board, you may be able to fit more rows and even include the “Sentence Strip” you will need in Phase 4.

You will also need to place velcro strips on the back of each laminated picture so they can easily be identified and removed from your PECS board.

How to Use Your PECS Board Correctly

Using the PECS teaching method can help your child in various ways. All of us have to make choices daily, whether they’re big decisions or not, and your child is no different. As they start to understand how PECS works, you can create either a bigger board or multiple boards to aid them in the following categories:

PECS Board For Choices

Create a board for items they have to choose between during their day. For example, you can place the different snacks they can pick from or their favorite beverages on the board. Multiple boards will make implementing Phase 2, “Distance and Persistence,” a lot easier.

PECS Board For Transitioning

Associating the pictures with real-life items can slowly evolve into helping them identify daily activities. For example, in the classroom, your child’s PECS board can include pictures of their different school subjects like art, math, and even recess. Transitioning from one activity to another will be easier when their teacher can show them with their board.

PECS Board For Communication

While the above methods promote communication, there are certain things your child may need or want that don’t involve making a choice or transitioning activities. For example, your PECS board for communication can include pictures of:

  • A toilet for them to indicate they need to use the bathroom.
  • A bed for when they want you to put them to bed.
  • The backyard to let you know they want to play outside.

The Effectiveness of a Picture Exchange Communication System (PECS) Board on Communication Skills And Speech

Studies have shown that the PECS has positive effects on the development of communication skills and speech. For example, it has proven to help children learn to make requests with pictures and, although some fear this method will hinder speech, some begin to use intelligible speech by following instructions.

The advantages of using a PECS board include:

  • Since pictures are easy to use, parents and other family members don’t need special training.
  • Matching pictures with items allows for quick and easy communication.
  • The PECS method will enable you to begin creating a positive emotional history related to speech.
  • PECS is a progressive tool with endless possibilities so you can continue to add pictures to your child’s board

Help From Normal Life Inc.

Creating your own PECS board is just the beginning of the beautiful journey you’ll embark on helping your child learn to communicate. There are so many tools out there that will help your child develop many other skills as they grow older. If you want to purchase a pre-made PECS board on Amazon, check out the best PECS boards for children with autism.

Normal Life Inc. was founded to help families affected by autism and other intellectual disabilities. Our goal is to provide much-needed resources to help you understand what your child is going through. We also want you, as a parent, to feel a sense of community because you’re not alone.

 

The Cheapest Adult Diapers For Families on a Budget

The Cheapest Adult Diapers For Families on a Budget

Between groceries, clothes, gas, mortgage, and phone bills, your family, like many others, might be struggling to stick to a monthly budget. Households with family members with autism or other medical conditions have a different list of expenses with medications, doctor appointments, and specialized education. 

On top of all these necessary expenses, some caretakers spend upwards of $300 monthly on incontinence supplies, like adult diapers, for their households. 

Parents have less time to find employment outside of the home as they dedicate most of their time to caretaking; all these factors make sticking to a monthly budget, not just important but essential. 

Additional and necessary products for your adult child with autism shouldn’t become a burden you have to carry. So let’s take a look at how you can find and select cheap adult diapers for your family on a budget without compromising quality.

The Challenge of Finding Affordable Adult Diapers 

What’s the difference between adult diapers and children’s diapers? Other than size, the most significant difference is the levels of absorbency. Children’s diapers are not as absorbent as adult diapers. Therefore, older children and adults need materials that can absorb greater quantities of moisture than an infant or toddler would require. 

Unfortunately, that means adult diapers come with a heftier price tag. If your child goes through several a day, this can easily take a toll on your wallet. 

As a result, some families have switched to a more sustainable and affordable option, cloth diapers. While they are initially a pricier option, investing in cloth diapers can save you money in the future. 

But we understand if your family isn’t eager to make the switch to cloth diapers. After all, they have their downsides when the time comes to clean them. Additionally, some have found them to lack sufficient absorbency. Therefore, the popular alternative is disposable diapers. But within the category of disposable diapers, there are several different options to choose between. So, how do you know which option is best for your child? 

What to Look For in an Adult Diaper

Adult diapers come in many different forms. While a lot depends on personal preference, it is vital to acknowledge what level of incontinence your loved one has, as this will factor in purchasing affordable adult diapers. Most diaper companies split this into four categories: light, moderate, heavy, and maximum.

Light Absorbency 

Individuals with light or infrequent leaks typically opt for this option. It’s easier to find comfortable options that feel like underwear while still offering protection for a couple of hours when looking for light absorbency. Most of the time, pads are an excellent substitute for light leaks. 

Moderate Absorbency 

If your child is active during the day but still has bladder leaks, moderate absorbency is a safe option. Moderate absorbency diapers will allow them to go a long period without changing and leave them feeling comfortable. 

Heavy Absorbency 

Heavy absorbency is ideal if they deal with both bladder and bowel incontinence. In addition, if your child is out and about for most of the day, heavy absorbency diapers can give you ease of mind and confidence that they won’t leak. 

Maximum Absorbency 

Maximum absorbency is often referred to as overnight. This option is perfect for ensuring a good night’s rest without concerns of leaking or changing the diaper in the middle of the night. Overnight diapers typically work between 8-10 hours. 

You may probably need to purchase a couple of different diapers with different levels of absorbency. Many families switch between two options—one for the day and a different one at night.

Once you have identified the level of absorbency, you need to decide what type of diaper to use. There are several options, but we will focus on the most commonly used: pull-on diapers, diapers with tabs, and belted diapers. Thankfully, these options come in varying levels of absorbency. 

Pull-on Diapers

Pull-on diapers are great to use if your child doesn’t need your help with getting the diaper on. Your child will need to pull them up like they would in their underwear. Pull-on diapers are often a more comfortable option as they are not quite as bulky as diapers with tabs. In addition, many brands have a mess-free rip-off feature that allows you to tear off the diaper quickly.

Diapers With Tabs

Although they come in adult sizes and increased absorbency levels, diapers with tabs are what your typical infant diaper looks like. Often, the tabs are re-fastenable, but these might be a bit more tricky for your child with autism to put on and take off when compared to a pull-on diaper.

Belted Diapers

Also referred to as belted pads, belted diapers use straps and a long core or pad to soak up moisture. Many prefer belted diapers as they can comfortably use underwear on top of the pads. They are discreet but still offer maximum protection.

There isn’t a better or more affordable choice when deciding what type of diaper to purchase. Most of it will depend on what works best for your child. 

Cheapest Adult Diapers For Families on a Budget

Cutting costs shouldn’t always equate to cutting quality. For example, finding discount adult diapers doesn’t mean using ones that don’t hold up or are absorbent. So, we have compiled a list of the cheapest adult diapers for sale on Amazon that won’t break the bank but still offer quality protection. 

Tena Dry Comfort Pull-On

Price: $0.57 per unit

Unisex

Absorbency: Moderate

Tena’s diapers help give your child independence with their easy pull-up feature and tear-away material when they are ready to come off. In addition, these diapers use Dry-Comfort thanks to breathable fabrics that look and feel like a pair of underwear. 

McKesson Adult Diaper

Price: $0.40 per unit

Unisex

Absorbency: Heavy

McKesson Adult Diapers have a unique hook and loop tab. These tabs make refastening throughout the day a quicker and easier process. In addition, heavy absorbency means your loved one can feel comfortable as they go out and about and enjoy the day.

Attends Breathable Briefs

Price: $0.40 per unit

Unisex

Absorbency: Heavy

Attends prides themself on offering confident protection, and that’s just what their breathable briefs do. This classic brief style has a three-tier moisture locking system to prevent leaks and trap in odors. As a result, they are comfortable, and the outer layer of fabric offers a discreet look and feel to avoid bulkiness.   

Prevail Briefs


Price: $0.42 per unit
Unisex

Absorbency: Maximum

This large pack of briefs offers maximum protection against leaks. It features ventilated waistbands that provide increased airflow and dry-lock tabs for a comfortable fit all day long. In addition, the wicking technology and materials reduce discomfort against the skin. 

Solimo Underwear for Men


Price: $0.53 per unit

Absorbency: Maximum

Amazon’s brand of brief diapers comes in four different sizes and offers maximum absorbency. Solimo’s diapers have the same feel as a pair of underwear and use dry-fit to help control moisture and temperature to keep their skin healthy and dry for several hours. 

Tena ProSkin Underwear for Women


Price: $0.50 per unit

Absorbency: Maximum

Tena ProSkin Underwear offers maximum protection while having the seal of approval of being gentle on the skin. The leg elastics help them stay comfortable throughout the night and are 100% breathable. When morning comes, the tear-away sides make cleaning up fast and easy. 

Prevail Incontinence Belted Shields

Price: $0.50 per unit

Absorbency: Maximum

Prevail belted shields use buttonholes to keep the diaper and straps in place securely. Breathable zones allow your child to enjoy a comfortable night’s rest without sacrificing protection. Maxorb gel to hold moisture and odor. 

To help you find the right size, most brands have a size chart to review before purchasing. In addition, some offer free sample pairs to help you find the best option and fit and can be reimbursed with an FSA (Flex Spending Account). 

The Hunt For Affordable Adult Diapers

If diapers are a necessity in your family’s home, then you shouldn’t have to cut corners to stick to your monthly budget. Instead, planning and finding affordable options can save you hundreds a year. 

Sticking to a budget isn’t always an easy task to follow. Prices and circumstances are constantly changing. But, despite it all, we want to help you tackle it all and take care of your family. With patience and a few attempts at finding the correct pairs, you can find the best and cheapest adult diaper for your family on a budget.